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This is one of the most anticipated DVD releases in a long time for fans of 1970's variety shows (of which I'm one) and fans of early KISS (count me in once again).

The master quipper from Hollywood Squares was one of America's favorite comedians 30 years ago, this 1977 holiday themed hour was a star-studded affair with Paul Lynde and some of the greatest stars of that era.

The immortal Margaret Hamilton reprises her role as the Wicked Witch of the West from the Wizard of Oz and things really get rolling when they're joined by Witchiepoo from H.R. Pufnstuf (Billie Hayes) and the diminutive Billy Barty. Nothing matches the joy of seeing Margaret Hamilton and Billie Hayes with a large role to play in a musical comedy setting; when they are on the screen it's magnetic, two artists at the peak of their craft.

Also on hand are Betty White, Florence Henderson, Tim Conway and Pinky Tuscadero (Roz Kelly) who was enjoying a fleeting fame as Fonzie's short term girlfriend.

Most of the jokes are standard 1970's variety show which means occasionally they're actually funny. At the time Paul was appearing on the Donny & Marie program (they make a cameo here) so naturally there are the silly, arbitrary comedy sketches (like Paul picking up truckers with his CB Radio) and requisite disco-ed up dance numbers to contend with but that's part of the charm of shows like this.

All else aside, this special is the Holy Grail for KISS fans.

The Paul Lynde Halloween Special was the first prime time appearance of KISS and it's an auspicious debut, they rock out on three explosive numbers - 'Detroit Rock City, 'King of the Night Time World,' and 'Beth' which was climbing the charts at the time. Great stuff, especially 'Beth' (all numbers were lip-synced) which gets the full-on variety show musical number treatment, it could easily have been Cher or Dinah Shore in the same setting.

This was the first exposure of this seminal band to most teens; they had only been on national TV twice, once in the afternoon and once late at night. This was a revelation for fans of the band, by the next year KISS was the hottest group in the nation and I was bored to death with them.

The source tape for this special wasn't in the best of condition (it's a miracle it survived at all) but the DVD looks pretty much like the program did when it was first broadcast, so I'm not complaining.

Another great feature is the bonus audio interview with Peter Marshall, in it he reminisces about Paul in a very frank and revealing chat. He has some delightful stories to tell.

Quite frankly, I can't think of anything better to pop into the DVD player this Halloween, it's kitschy, campy fun that will undoubtedly rocket you back 3 decades in time.

It's available for order from Amazon right now for only $11.00!

It's available for order from Amazon right now for 11 bucks.

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